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Government of Canada Travel Advisory

Last Updated: July 21, 2017 15:02 EST1. RECENT UPDATESThe Health tab was updated - travel health notices (Public Health Agency of Canada).2. ADVISORIESBelize - Exercise a high degree of cautionThere is no nationwide advisory in effect for Belize. However, you should exercise a high degree of caution due to a high rate of violent crime throughout the country.Travel Health Notice - Zika virusThe Public Health Agency of Canada has issued advice for travellers on the Zika virus, recommending that Canadians practice special health precautions while travelling in affected countries. Pregnant women and those considering becoming pregnant should avoid travel to Belize. See Health for more information.3. SECURITYCrimeCriminal activity, including armed robbery, mugging and sexual assault, is a significant problem throughout Belize. Robberies and assaults have been reported in resort areas. There has been a noted increase in violent crime targeting tourists since the end of 2013. Criminals often operate in groups and target persons travelling alone. Always travel in groups and ensure that personal belongings and travel documents are secure at all times. Do not show signs of affluence. Use taxis after dark instead of walking.Armed robberies occasionally occur near the western border with Guatemala, including near and around Caracol. You should only travel to these areas during daylight hours. Be cautious when visiting Mayan archaeological sites in that region, and do so only with a reputable tour guide. Only use official border crossings to enter Guatemala during the day.Cases of sexual assault against female travellers have been reported. Always travel in groups and avoid isolated areas, including unsupervised beaches, especially at night. Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances, as they may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault.DemonstrationsDemonstrations and large gatherings can occur throughout the country, especially in Belize City and Belmopan, and may turn violent. Avoid all demonstrations, follow the advice of local authorities and monitor local media.Road safetyRoads are often poorly maintained and lit. Avoid driving after dark, especially on rural roads. Traffic accidents occur regularly. Belize has four paved highways: the Western Highway from Belize City to Benque Viejo del Carmen and on to the Guatemalan border; the Northern Highway from Belize City to Corozal and on to the Mexican border; the Hummingbird Highway from Belmopan to Dangriga; and the Southern Highway from Dangriga to the resort area of Placencia and on to the southernmost town of Punta Gorda.Be careful crossing bridges on the Hummingbird and Southern Highways, since bridges are usually only one lane. Most other roads are unpaved; they can be very dusty in the dry season, whereas major puddles and mud can be a problem in the rainy season. Bicycles and livestock are often traffic hazards, especially in urban areas.Service stations are available on the three main highways connecting Belize City with Mexico, Guatemala and southern Belize. Always keep your gas tank full when in remote areas, as service stations are scarce and they usually close for holidays. There are no emergency road services. A few public telephones can be found in larger villages only. You should not stop to offer assistance to others whose vehicles appear to have broken down.Marine travelPassenger boats may be unsafe.Air travelThe Government of Canada does not assess foreign domestic airlines' compliance with international aviation safety standards. See Foreign domestic airlines for more information.Public transportationPublic buses and taxis are often unsafe due to poor vehicle maintenance. You should only use registered taxis with green licence plates.TrekkingIf you intend to trek:a) never trek alone; b) always hire an experienced guide and ensure that the trekking company is reputable; c) buy travel health insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation; d) ensure that you are in good physical condition and that you have sufficient supplies, notably water, as the climate is extremely hot and humid; e) advise a family member or friend of your itinerary; f) register with the Consulate of Canada in Belize; and g) obtain detailed information on trekking routes before setting out.General safety informationEnsure the recreational activities you choose are covered by your travel insurance, and that rental sporting and aquatic equipment is safe and in good condition, especially for diving and snorkelling.Avoid insect bites when on the southern coast or in the jungles by using repellent or by covering up and avoid being stung by jellyfish when snorkelling.4. ENTRY / EXIT REQUIREMENTSIt is the sole prerogative of every country or territory to determine who is allowed to enter or exit. Canadian consular officials cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet entry or exit requirements. The following information has been obtained from the Belizean authorities and is subject to change at any time. The country- or territory-specific entry/exit requirements are provided on this page for information purposes only. While every effort is made to provide accurate information, information contained here is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, express or implied. The Government of Canada assumes no responsibility, and shall not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided. It is your responsibility to check with the High Commission of Belize or one of its consulates for up-to-date information.Official (special and diplomatic) passport holders must consult the Official Travel page, as they may be subject to different entry requirements.PassportCanadians must present a passport to visit Belize, which must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of expected departure from that country. Prior to travelling, ask your transportation company about its requirements related to passport validity, which may be more stringent than the country's entry rules.Temporary passport holders may be subject to different entry requirements. Check with diplomatic representatives for up-to-date information.VisasTourist visa: Not requiredBusiness visa: Required Student visa: RequiredAll Canadians visiting Belize must possess a ticket for an onward or return journey and proof of sufficient funds (considered to be US$60 a day). At least half of this total must be in cash; the remaining portion may be covered by credit cards.Border officials sometimes charge foreigners excessive entry or exit fees. Obtain current information before leaving Canada. If you are overcharged, ask to see a senior official.Departure taxThere is an airport departure tax of US$35, which is normally included in the price of the plane ticket.Children and travelChildren need special documentation to visit certain countries. See Children for more information.Yellow feverSee Health to obtain information on this country's vaccination requirements.5. HEALTHMedical services and facilitiesMedical facilities are limited, and severe emergency cases require evacuation to another country at the expense of the patient.6. LAWS AND CULTUREYou are subject to local laws. See Arrest and detention for more information.Illegal drugsPenalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict. Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines.LawsIndividuals and organizations must obtain a permit to possess pre-Columbian artifacts. A Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora permit is needed to collect, possess and/or export certain plants, animals and/or plant and animal products.Penalties for possession of unlicensed firearms or unlicensed ammunition are strict, including large fines and mandatory jail sentences for repeat offenders.DrivingYou must be over 25 to rent a vehicle. Remember to purchase sufficient car insurance. An International Driving Permit is recommended.LGBT travelThe laws of Belize prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex. LGBT travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Belize. Consult Homosexual, bisexual and transgender travel for more information.Dual citizenshipDual citizenship is legally recognized in Belize. However, Canadian officials may be limited in their ability to provide you with consular services if local authorities consider you a Belizean citizen. You should always travel using your valid Canadian passport and present yourself as Canadian to foreign authorities at all times to minimize this risk. You may also need to carry and present a Belizean passport for legal reasons, for example to enter and exit the country (see Entry/exit requirements to determine passport requirements). Citizenship is determined solely by national laws, and the decision to recognize dual citizenship rests completely with the country in which you are located when seeking consular assistance. See Travelling as a dual citizen for more information.MoneyThe currency is the Belizean dollar (BZD). Cash advances can be obtained at local banks with major international credit cards.7. DISASTERS AND CLIMATEHurricane seasonThe hurricane season extends from June to the end of November. The National Hurricane Center provides additional information on weather conditions. Stay informed of regional weather forecasts, and follow the advice and instructions of local authorities.The low-lying coastal islands of Belize are particularly vulnerable to direct hits by hurricanes and tropical storms. The islands are sometimes cut off from communications and outside assistance during hurricanes. Extensive flooding as a result of storm activity is common both on the islands and in areas of the country not directly affected by hurricanes.

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